Young academics are invited to submit papers or essays addressing one of the following topics:
- Climate and Sustainability Finance
1.1. The role of international financial centers in financing the net-zero transition
1.2. The role of international financial centers in financing the circular economy.
1.3. The role of the financial sector in fostering a sustainable blue (maritime) economy and
creating biodiversity solutions.
1.4. The role of international financial centers in global sustainability reporting interoperability
connecting ISSB, ESRS, GRI, and taxonomies. - Social Impact and Inclusion
2.1. How international financial centers can foster diversity and inclusion in the financial
industry.
2.2. The role of international financial institutions in designing financial products and due
diligence methods to promote the growth of social enterprises and social finance. - Digital Finance and Technology
3.1. The impact of agentic artificial intelligence on the financial sector.
3.2. The impact of quantum computing on the financial sector.
3.3. How can IFCs lead in establishing global tokenized capital markets and competitive
regulatory ecosystems to develop digital assets and tokenization of real-world assets?
3.4. How will new forms of digital money, such as Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and
stablecoins, transform payments and banking?
3.5. The role of the financial sector in better protecting consumers from fraud. - Talent and Skills for the Future
4.1. How international financial centers can support talent development and re-skilling.
4.2. How the financial sector can remain an attractive employer for young talent.
Papers must be either unpublished or published no earlier than 2025. An English translation is required if the paper is written in a different language. Multiple authors can contribute to a paper or essay, but at least one author must be under 35 as of 30 May 2026.
Prizes
The top three finalists will have the unique opportunity to present their research at the WAIFC Annual General Meeting, to be held in Busan, South Korea, in the week from September 14 to 18, 2026. The World Alliance will cover the travel expenses to Busan. The winner of the best paper will be awarded a prize of €3,000. The runners-up will be awarded prizes of €2,000 (2nd place) and €1,000 (3rd place).
How to apply?
Applications to submit your paper or essay may be made by 30 April 2026. Your final paper or essay must be submitted no later than 30 May 2026.